Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon confirmed Monday that a budget of PHP2 billion has been allocated for infrastructure projects in the Davao Region in 2027.

“This includes Davao City. Marami talaga tayong gagawin dito (We really have a lot to do here),” he said in an interview during his inspection of the Talomo River flood control project.

The allocation covers the continuation of the Talomo River project worth PHP212 million, apart from the Flood Control Master Plan funded by a foreign agency.

“These PHP2 billion are all projects — not plans,” Dizon clarified.

Dizon inspected the ongoing construction of gabion walls, two months after his initial visit following severe flooding in late July.

“If you could remember, all the houses were affected by flooding here. With the installation of gabion walls, if there is heavy rain, residents can now feel safe and will no longer fear floodwaters reaching their homes,” he added.

He said the project is nearly complete and will proceed to the elevation of the Bailey Bridge.

“We also dredged the river and elevated the flood protection,” Dizon said. (PNA)